Qatar to host FIBA West Asia Super League – Final 8
The FIBA West Asia Super League – Final 8 is set to be hosted in Doha, Qatar, the FIBA Regional Office Asia announced on Thursday. The pinnacle event of the second season of FIBA West Asia Super League is scheduled from May 25-June 1, 2024.
This will be the first time that Doha, Qatar, will serve as the host of the much-anticipated event, with the inaugural edition having been hosted in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
“Witnessing Qatar host the WASL Final 8 fills me with immense pride and excitement,” said Hagop Khajirian, FIBA Regional Office - Asia Executive Director. “This event not only highlights the exceptional growth and development of basketball in the region but also underscores Doha’s commitment to excellence as a host city.”
“Qatar’s dedication to fostering the growth of basketball is evident. It sets a precedent as we collectively strive to elevate the sport to new heights across Asia, especially in club competitions, which is one of FIBA’s strategic priorities for cycle 2023-2027.”
Qatar will be hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup in 2027. “Hosting the FIBA West Asia Super League - Final 8 in Doha this year marks a significant milestone for Qatar’s basketball journey. It’s not just about showcasing our regional prowess but also about laying the groundwork for the grand stage ahead,” said Mohamed Saad al-Meghaiseeb, president of the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF).
“This event serves as a testament to our commitment and readiness as we strive towards hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027.”
In recent years, Qatar has also hosted consecutive FIBA U16 Asia Cups in 2022 and 2023. The Gulf nation also hosted the FIBA Asia Cup, the region’s flagship competition, in 2005.
“With the Final 8 set to tip off in Doha, we proudly continue to build a tradition of being a hotbed for basketball in the region from hosting recent U16 Asia Cups to the Asia Cup in the early 2000s,” said Saadoun al-Kuwari, QBF secretary-general. “This year’s Final 8 heralds another chapter in Doha’s storied journey, as we continue to set the stage for unforgettable moments in basketball history.”
Six teams from the FIBA WASL Sub-Zone Leagues make up the Final 8. Champions Kuwait Club spearhead the Gulf delegation that also has Manama as well as third-placed club, Kazma. The West Asia ensemble, meanwhile, features Al Riyadi, Shahrdary Gorgan, and Sagesse Sports Club. All six will be joined by BC Astana (Central Asia) and Tamil Nadu (South Asia).
The Final 8 teams will be divided into two groups, each comprising four teams. Following the group stage, the two highest-ranking teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, while the third and fourth-placed teams will be eliminated from further contention. Subsequently, the winners of the Semi-Finals will advance to compete in the Final.
The two finalist clubs will earn a spot in the inaugural Basketball Champions League Asia (BCL Asia) which will be played from June 9-15, 2024 in Dubai.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).